As September transitions into fall, the Greater Seattle and Eastside real estate markets continue to show dynamic shifts in pricing, inventory, and buyer activity. This week’s market update highlights where trends are moving across Seattle, Bellevue, and surrounding Eastside communities, giving buyers and sellers valuable insight into current opportunities.

Sales Price Trends

Seattle led the region with a +6.5% rise in median sales price, reaching $880,000—an encouraging sign of demand in the city’s urban core. Bellevue, however, recorded a -3.1% dip to $1,524,500, reflecting softening at the high end of the luxury market. Kirkland and Redmond also saw modest price declines (-1.2% and -3.5% respectively), while Issaquah bucked the trend with a +2.1% uptick. The largest adjustment was in Woodinville, where prices fell -22.3%, signaling more buyer leverage in that submarket.

For sellers, Seattle’s upward pricing momentum suggests stronger buyer competition. On the Eastside, strategic pricing and property presentation will be key to standing out in an increasingly balanced market.

Inventory Expands Across All Markets

The number of homes for sale continues to rise significantly, offering buyers more options. Bellevue saw a +57% increase in listings (438 homes), while Kirkland inventory jumped +71.5% (434 homes). Sammamish (+50.9%) and Woodinville (+54.8%) also posted notable increases. Seattle remains the largest market, with 2,643 homes available (+27.3%).

This surge in inventory signals an important shift toward balance, giving buyers the chance to explore more properties while reducing the bidding war intensity that has defined much of the past two years.

Months of Supply Signals Balance

Months of supply, a key indicator of market balance, continues to climb. Seattle sits at 3.6 months (+16.1%), while Bellevue is at 3.7 months (+54.2%). Kirkland rose to 4.0 months (+73.9%), suggesting the area is leaning toward a balanced-to-buyer’s market. Sammamish and Issaquah also saw significant growth, at 2.8 and 3.4 months, respectively.

For buyers, these levels mean more negotiating room. For sellers, it emphasizes the need for expert pricing and marketing strategies.

Days on Market Rising

Homes are taking longer to sell across the board. Bellevue properties now average 13 days on market (+44.4%), while Seattle stands at 15 days (+15.4%). Kirkland and Redmond doubled their DOM to 16 and 12 days, while Sammamish spiked to 27 days (+350%).

This increase in market time provides buyers with breathing room to make more informed decisions. Sellers should anticipate slightly longer listing periods and plan accordingly.

Key Takeaways

• Seattle remains resilient, with rising prices and steady demand despite more inventory.

• Bellevue and Kirkland are experiencing softening, but high inventory provides fresh opportunities for discerning buyers.

• Eastside markets like Sammamish and Woodinville are seeing more dramatic shifts, creating room for negotiation and buyer leverage.

For luxury buyers and sellers, the current environment offers both challenges and opportunities. Sellers should prioritize property presentation and strategic pricing, while buyers can take advantage of expanded inventory and reduced urgency.